Nov 27th 2024 Current Affairs

Index:

1. SC Ruling on Socialism and Secularism

Background:

  • Original Preamble (1949): Declared India a sovereign, democratic, republic. The Constituent Assembly consciously avoided including “socialist” and “secular” terms, believing they were implicit in the constitutional framework.
  • Amendment (42nd CAA, 1976): During the Emergency, the words “Socialist” and “Secular” were added to the Preamble to reflect the ideals of justice and equality.

 

Key Features:

  1. Socialism in India:
    • Represents a welfare state promoting equality and opportunity while allowing the private sector to function.
    • Initially post-independence, democratic socialism focused on centralized planning and state-led industries.
    • Post-1991 reforms: India moved toward market-oriented socialism, balancing public and private sectors.
  2. Secularism in India:
    • Indian secularism differs from Western secularism: The state maintains equal respect for all religions but does not interfere in religious matters unless required to ensure harmony.
    • Emphasis on religious tolerance and equal treatment under the law.

 

Court’s Observations:

  • Current Case: Filed by MP Subramanian Swamy, challenging the inclusion of “socialist” and “secular” in the Preamble, arguing it was added during the Emergency and forced ideological views on citizens.
  • Supreme Court Verdict:
    • Dismissed the plea, stating the Preamble is part of the Constitution and interpreted dynamically.
    • The insertion of “socialist” and “secular” does not alter the Constitution’s basic structure.

 

Why It Is Important:

  • Post-Independence Era: Focused on democratic socialism through planning and regulation.
  • Post-Liberalization Era: Shift toward a mixed economy with private and public sector coexistence.

Emphasizes the spirit of inclusiveness through social justice and diversity.

2. Milk, Meat, and Egg Production in 2023-24

Key Highlights (2023-24 Report by Animal Husbandry Department):

  1. Milk Production: Increase: Grew by 3.78% over 2022-23, reaching 3 million tonnes.
    • Decadal Growth: Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 62% (2014-15: 146.3 million tonnes).
    • Global Rank: India is the largest producer of milk globally.
    • Top States:
      • Uttar Pradesh (16.21% share)
      • Followed by Rajasthan (14.51%), Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.
    • Highest Growth: West Bengal recorded 76% growth in 2023-24.
  2. Egg Production:
    • Total: Estimated at 77 billion eggs, growing by 3.18% over 2022-23.
    • Decadal Growth: CAGR of 8% (2014-15: 78.48 billion eggs).
    • Global Rank: India is second in global egg production.
    • Top States:
      • Andhra Pradesh (17.85% share)
      • Followed by Tamil Nadu (15.64%).
  1. Meat Production: Total: Estimated at 25 million tonnes, with a decadal CAGR of 4.85%.
    • Animal Contributions (2023-24):
      • Poultry: 96%
      • Cattle: 6%
      • Goat: 09%
      • Buffalo: 13%
      • Sheep: 5%
      • Pig: 72%

 

Key Observations:

  1. Sector Growth Trends: Significant increase in milk, meat, and egg production reflects growth in India’s livestock economy.
  2. States’ Performance: Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh dominate milk and egg production respectively, showcasing regional specializations.

Livestock and Economy: Growth in animal husbandry contributes to rural livelihoods and aligns with government programs like the National Livestock Mission.

3. PAN 2.0

CONTEXT: The Permanent Account Number (PAN) 2.0 is an upgraded version of the existing PAN system introduced by the Income Tax Department to enhance efficiency, data security, and integration. Approved by the Union Cabinet, PAN 2.0 aims to make PAN the common business identifier for transactions and filings across entities.

 

Key Features of PAN 2.0:

  1. 10-Digit Alphanumeric Identifier: PAN remains a 10-digit alphanumeric number but will now serve as a single point of reference for individuals and businesses.
  2. Enhanced QR Code: Originally introduced in 2017, the QR code now incorporates additional information for verification and data security.
  3. Centralized System: Merges Tax Deduction Account Number (TAN) and PAN to avoid duplication.
    • PAN will act as a unified identifier for both taxpayers and businesses involved in Tax Deduction at Source (TDS) or Tax Collected at Source (TCS).
  4. Improved IT Backbone: PAN-related data and services (e-filing portal, UTIITSL portal, etc.) will be integrated into a single unified platform to enhance convenience and reduce delays.

 

Benefits of PAN 2.0:

  1. For Individuals:
    • Existing PAN holders can continue using their PAN without mandatory upgrades.
    • Secure and faster services with enhanced validation mechanisms.
  2. For Businesses:
    • PAN 2.0 simplifies processes like tax filings, government contracts, and regulatory compliance by serving as the single identifier.
    • Helps avoid duplication and ensures consistency across databases.
    • Unified Portal for tax services, reducing compliance delays.
  3. For Governance:
    • Boosts tax administration by consolidating all taxpayer-related data on a single platform.
    • Reduces fraudulent activities and strengthens security mechanisms.

 

Financial Implications:

  • Implementation cost: ₹1,435 crore.

Long-term benefits include higher compliance, reduced administrative burden, and better data-driven governance.

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